A Volcano is born, and the puns begin

I should know by now just how long it takes to make a book, but there are always parts of the process that seem to take forever.
Actually, most parts take longer than I’d like. Volcano is our new narrative non fiction book.

Finding the story voice

Finding the story voice can take forever. For narrative non fiction books like this one, Volcano, that voice comes when I’ve done lots of research (but acknowledge there will be more to come). For Volcano, I felt the currents of the deep ocean, the dampened explosions occasioned by the deep pressure, the dark and the cold. I marvelled at the tenacity and evolutionary adaptations of the animals that call the deep waters home. The voice had to reflect all of that.

Sequencing

Once I’d found that voice, I could begin to sequence the narrative (and do more research). Draft after draft, it began to take shape. Day after day, I’d be distracted by interesting information. Much of it could not fit in this picture book text, there was just not enough room. But I dropped hints throughout, single words sometimes, that hopefully will connect enough with a reader that they explore further.

bloody belly comb jelly

Weaving the Jess Magic

When I was done (this is definitely one of the parts that feels like it takes too long, although I know it needs this drafting, resting, redrafting etc time) and submitted, there is more waiting time.
From here on, I step back and let Jess (the Illustrator) weave her magic. Yes, there is editing and questions, design and all manner of wonderful discussions with the A&U team about paper stock and other elements, but I have to hope that my words give Jess enough information/inspiration and leave enough space for her to create her own story. So that means I step away.

Many people and a Process

pillowing lava

A picture book is created partly in words, partly in image, and partly in the way the publishing team bring those together. Done really well, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and couldn’t exist otherwise.
There is an alchemy in the process that requires time and waiting. Many people are involved, not just Jess and I. Publisher, Sam Forge, editor Nicola Santilli, designer Sandra Noble, Caro Walsh, Reem Galal, Liz Kemp, and many many more, all help to make this book the best it can be, then get it out to readers.
And then, finally, there is a book. It’s always worth the wait. Now it’s time to share this amazing underwater world with readers.
I can’t wait. (Bring on the puns)

Read more about Claire’s latest book ‘Volcano’